Situated in the central part of Turkey, covering the provinces of Nevsehir, Aksaray, Kirsehir, Nigde, and Kayseri, the Cappadocia region resembles an open-air museum with its unique geography and rich history. Cappadocia’s history dates back to around 3000 B.C., and the region carries the traces of many civilizations. Cappadocia translates to ‘Land of Beautiful Horses.’
Cappadocia’s History: A Journey from Antiquity to the Present
The history of Cappadocia has been shaped by the interactions of various civilizations such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, and Byzantine Empires. Especially in the pre-Christian era, the region was famous for its underground cities and churches. Christians, escaping persecution during the Roman period, constructed underground cities in this unique landscape.
Places to Visit: Unique Beauties of Cappadocia
- Fairy Chimneys: Extraordinary Rock Formations The most famous feature of Cappadocia, the fairy chimneys, are unique rock formations shaped by wind and rain erosion of soft tuff stones. It is possible to see these unique fairy chimneys in regions like Goreme, Urgup, and Uchisar.
- Goreme Open-Air Museum: Historical Churches Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Goreme Open-Air Museum hosts the oldest churches and monasteries in the region. Churches famous for their frescoes from the 10th century provide important works depicting the history of Christianity.
- Pasabag Valley: Three-Headed Fairy Chimney Pasabag Valley is home to the famous three-headed fairy chimney. This region showcases one of the most impressive examples of fairy chimneys and has been the subject of legendary stories.
- Derinkuyu Underground City: Mysterious Labyrinth Among Cappadocia’s underground cities, Derinkuyu is the deepest and a massive underground labyrinth built by Christian communities to escape persecution at times.
- Uchisar Castle: Panoramic View Uchisar Castle is located at the highest point in the region, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Cappadocia.
- Zelve Open-Air Museum: Collaboration of Nature and Humans Zelve is an open-air museum that preserves its historical texture and offers the best observation point for Cappadocia’s geographical structure. Monasteries and churches carved into rocks shed light on the region’s religious past.
- Cavusin: Village Embedded in Rocks Cavusin has been a village hosting different civilizations throughout history and has gradually become a village carved into rocks. Cavusin Church stands out with its unique frescoes.
- Cappadocia University Neolithic Life Park: Prehistoric Life This park sheds light on Cappadocia’s Neolithic period, offering visitors the opportunity to experience daily life from prehistoric times. Journey into the past amid cave houses and traditional crafts.
- Cappadocia Balloons: A Magical Journey in the Sky Watching Cappadocia’s unique landscapes from a hot air balloon provides an unforgettable experience. Hot air balloons, coloring the skies with the sunrise, are an ideal way to see the enchanting geography of the region from above. Balloon flights last for 1 hour.
- Avanos: Center of Pottery and Crafts Visit Avanos to discover the ceramic tradition of Cappadocia. Explore ceramic works produced by master craftsmen and try your hand at pottery making.
- Gulludere Valley: Hiking Route For those eager to explore the breathtaking nature of Cappadocia, Gulludere Valley is a paradise with hiking trails and unique rock formations.
Cappadocia offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its unique geography and history. Immerse yourself in the magic of fairy chimneys and step into the mystical atmosphere of this enchanting land.
Private Tours: Unique Experiences
- ATV and Jeep Tours: Off-Road Adventure in Cappadocia Explore the hidden valleys of Cappadocia with ATV or Jeep tours. Ideal for a fast-paced adventure amid rock formations. Options include 1 or 2-hour tours, as well as sunrise and sunset tour choices.
- Classic Car Tour: Nostalgic Journey Embark on a journey into the past on private tours conducted with classic cars on the historic streets of bygone eras. Options include 2-hour tours, as well as sunrise and sunset excursions.
- Camel and Horse Safari: Charm of Traditional Transportation Discover the unique landscapes of Cappadocia on camel or horseback. Experience a serene and peaceful safari in nature. Options include 1 or 2-hour tours, as well as sunrise and sunset tour choices.
